As I’m scrolling through Facebook, something caught my eye at a local mom’s group. It was about her disappointment towards her newborn photos. This mom was sad she didn’t received the photos she was expecting. One of her complaints was the quality of the images among other things. Now that her baby is over a month, she will most likely not have the chance to have the type of photos she wanted for her baby.
Unfortunately, I see this type of post often. When hiring a newborn photographer, parents need to be cautious who they hire but most importantly, they need to do their research to find the right person they need.
I understand that most people will focus on prices, just as I do. This might work well for other products and services but I believe when it comes down to pictures, you get what you pay. Simple as that!
As a professional photographer, it is our responsibility to educate clients on this topic because many of them don’t even know where to begin when searching for someone to do their photos.
Here are some tips that will facilitate the process when finding the right person for you
1) Don’t shop mainly on price
A good and experienced newborn photographer in Oklahoma will charge at least $500 and up for newborn pictures. You might think this is “too high” but consider this, professionals are highly trained and well knowledgeable at their craft. They spend years perfecting their work and education to provide a great service and quality. They also spend a great amount of money in props which will result in better pictures.
2) Look at their websites/galleries
When hiring a newborn photographer, clients should have a clear idea of the style they are wanting and knowing whether the photographer will provide that style or not. It is very simple! Look at their work, social media photos, and websites. Are they consistent? Do they offer the style you love? If they don’t have a portfolio to show, it is very likely they are just starting. Nothing wrong with that, but the photographer should be very vocal from the get go and inform the clients if they are building their portfolios.
3) Testimonials
This is a HUGE one. When you go out to eat, do you search for reviews on Google/yelp? If they have many bad reviews, would you still go eat there? I heartily believe most people won’t. Same rule applies to photographers. Testimonials and reviews are extremely important to have. They allow potential clients to have a clear understanding of how the photographer works, their customer service skills, and lastly their quality of work. What better way than to hear this from other clients rather than just a photographer? Look for those reviews!
4) You might not get a second chance
When booking a newborn session, most photographers will shoot the session between 7-20 days old. Others even at 1 month old. By the time you get your photos back, and if you are unsatisfied with the photos, your baby will be way over the “window for newborn photos” which will result on missing out having amazing photos of your baby.
Remember, your baby will only be that little for a short period of time. Make the investment and your time worth it.
